On the hill
Why Footwear Matters More Than You Think
In this guide we’ll break down how to think about footwear choices, what really makes a difference in the real world, and how to match choices to terrain and conditions.
The problem this solves
Many walkers end up with sore feet, blisters, or tired legs not because they’re unfit — but because their footwear doesn’t match the terrain they’re walking on. Common problems include: Boots that feel heavy and stiff on easy paths, shoes that feel great at first but struggle on wet rock or mud and waterproof footwear that leaves feet hot and damp from sweat.
UK walking is varied, wet, and often unpredictable. One-size-fits-all footwear advice simply doesn’t work here. Often people buy “the best” boot, rather than the right one!
The core idea: enough protection to stay comfortable and confident as conditions change
The right walking footwear is the lightest, most comfortable option that still gives you enough support and grip for the terrain you’re on. Match the footwear to your walking reality, not an idealised one.
How to put this into practice
Use these steps to narrow down your choice.
1. Start with the terrain
The type of ground you walk on most should guide your footwear choice. The rougher and more uneven the ground, the more support you’ll want.
- Flat, well-maintained paths: Supportive trail shoes or light footwear
- Mixed terrain, mud, roots, uneven ground: Trail shoes or lighter boots
- Rocky, rough, long days with a pack: Boots with more structure and support
2. Decide between boots and trail shoes
Both are valid choices. Many experienced walkers use both, depending on the route.
- Walking boots give ankle support, protection, and stability — ideal for rough ground, heavier packs, and long days.
- Trail shoes are lighter, more flexible, and often more comfortable — great for defined paths, summer walking, and fast, light days.
3. Prioritise fit above everything else
A well-fitting boot beats a badly fitting “top-end” model every time.
- No heel lift when walking uphill
- Enough room in the toe box for descents
- No pressure points straight out of the box
Always try footwear with the socks you actually walk in.
4. Think realistically about waterproofing
Waterproof membranes help in wet grass, puddles, and rain — but they also reduce breathability. If you mostly walk in warm or dry conditions, slightly less waterproof but more breathable footwear can be more comfortable overall.
5. Break them in properly
Never judge walking footwear on a five-minute shop test.
- Wear them around the house
- Take them on short local walks
- Build up distance gradually
This helps you catch issues early — before they ruin a full day out.
Common mistakes & how to avoid them
- Buying footwear that’s too heavy “just in case” → Choose the lightest option that still suits your terrain.
- Assuming ankle support prevents injuries → Good foot placement and balance matter just as much as boot height.
- Ignoring fit because a boot is highly rated → Feet are personal. Reviews don’t override comfort.
- Only testing footwear on dry ground → UK walking is rarely dry — grip matters.
- Not considering foot care alongside footwear → Socks, lacing, and foot prep all affect comfort.
A real trip example
Over time, I’ve learned that no single pair of footwear covers everything. For easier terrain and long summer days, trail shoes often feel fresher and less tiring. As soon as the ground turns rough, wet, or I’m carrying more weight, boots with solid support come into their own.
The key is having footwear that matches the walk — not forcing every walk to match the footwear.
Key takeaways
- Match footwear to terrain, distance, and conditions.
- Fit matters more than brand or price.
- Boots and trail shoes both have a place.